As we get into the full swing of NDEAM (National Disability Employment Awareness Month), our participants are being honored not only in their jobs, but in the community too! Check out Chaz, who has become a meaningful staple of his community through his involvement and volunteering. We had the chance to interview Chaz with his job coach, Jackie, as he told us about an award he recently received.
“I do a lot of work in the 35th district. I help with Unity Day and help with the Halloween Day event. This year they wanted to recognize me – so they gave me the Hero Award.”
Chaz was honored at the 35th District’s 5th annual “Heroes of the Community” award ceremony held at Enon Tabernacle Church. He was presented with a plaque and a certificate from the Pennsylvania State Senate recognizing him for his “dedication and excellence” in contributing to the well-being of his community. He has been helping plan and volunteer at the 35th District’s Halloween and Heroes events since 2010, making him the perfect candidate to receive a Hero Award. In addition to his work in the 35th District, Chaz volunteers and serves on the chair on over five, yes FIVE, other community boards and organizations!
“Chaz is the man! You did this—this was all you!” said, his job coach Jackie as she snapped a quick photo with Chaz as he held up one of his many accolades.
For his Hero Award given by the 35th district, he mentioned feeling humbled by the honor. He received a plaque and a citation to celebrate all his hard work (and was excited that he did not have to make a speech—something we all may relate to). Did we mention that Chaz also works as an Ambassador for the Philadelphia Eagles? Talk about a jack of all trades!
We are beyond proud of him, even more so when he called to let us know that Brandon Graham, a defensive end for the Eagles, gave him an autographed jersey and a letter thanking him for his work as an Eagles Ambassador.
“If there is one thing I could sum up about Chaz, it’s that he is such a light in his community, helping so many people with so many causes,” said, Jackie as we ended the call. We could not have put it in better words.
Congrats to Chaz, and keep an eye on our page all October long as we celebrate employers and participants who do so much to increase access and equity for people with disabilities.